View Full Version : Can't get front end to Toe-in
JCB52
09-15-2021, 09:41 AM
I was wondering if anyone else has had this problem, and the best solution. I'm using the 1988 mustang donor rack & pinion. I've cut off 1.75" on each tie rod. Set the R&P to center and replaced the stock jam nuts with thin ones. Threaded on the tie rod ends all the way to the ends of the rod threads. The right side has adequate toe-in, but the left side is way toed out. Thought it a good idea to consult the forum before I start hacking on the rod ends...
CraigS
09-15-2021, 12:34 PM
Can you describe your procedure for centering the rack please?
JCB52
09-15-2021, 03:54 PM
Lift the front end to unweight the suspension. Turn the steering wheel full right, then full left. Then, count the turns to full right. Divide that number by 2, and turn that number left. If the steering wheel is very close to being centered, your good to make the minor correction at the wheel, and make the front end alignment at that point. If, the steering wheel is way off, nearly 180 degrees out of phase, pull the steering wheel hub and flip it 180, and proceed as previously described.
CraigS
09-16-2021, 06:48 AM
That looks correct to me. When you center the rack is the steering wheel centered also. If not you may need to adjust the steering column a spline or two at the rack. I have no details available but I do know that there are several different outer tierod ends that are different lengths. Any possibility yours are different left to right.
JCB52
09-16-2021, 07:31 AM
MYSTERY SOLVED
The lesson is, when using donor parts, don't count on all the parts being OEM.
I measured the length of a friends 89 stock 5.0 mustang, and my tie-rod ends are 1/2" longer. Trimmed 3/8" off the end, and achieved the necessary adjustment for toe in...
GoDadGo
09-16-2021, 07:40 AM
MYSTERY SOLVED
The lesson is, when using donor parts, don't count on all the parts being OEM.
I measured the length of a friends 89 stock 5.0 mustang, and my tie-rod ends are 1/2" longer. Trimmed 3/8" off the end, and achieved the necessary adjustment for toe in...
It's all part of the journey.
You'll find many little bumps along the way so, Wrench On & Watch Your Pinkies!